US sees surge in solar installations

The US may be considered a world leader in many fields, but how closely would you relate the country to energy efficiency?

A new report reveals how the country saw significant growth in the uptake of solar power systems during the first quarter of the year, bringing the total activity level to 4,426 MW.

GTM Research and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) found that the sector could even play a role in bringing the US out of its tough economic situation.

"In states across the country, Americans are waking up to the realisation that putting solar on your home or business is a better investment than the stock market," commented Rhone Resch, president and chief executive officer of SEIA.

He revealed that solar panel installations have increased 85 per cent over the past year, giving us here in Australia something to aspire to!

New Jersey was identified as having the largest state market, with 174 MW worth of installations during the first three months of this year alone.

The Australian market still has some way to go before it catches up with the US, but it just goes to show that even the most developed of nations can still reap the benefits of solar power.